Just an FYI. I just noticed the bulletins in owners garage about the impact dilemna. It does not affect me, but I am sure it affects some who may have forgotten about the issue last year. Would not want someone to show up to a race with unapproved equipment unknowingly. So basically is it saying any impact youth helmets are now not USAC approved? I think everyone is looking for a clarification of what is and what isn't approved.

The Draft and Vapor are the two models listed. I wonder if they're including the Mini Vapor in that. It won't have an effect on most teams, as the majority of Impact QM helmets are the Mini Champ model.

After reading in the 2011 Rule book, there is not a thing about FIA approved suits, helmets, or gloves. It says snell and SFI approved. After also reading through the FIA file also listed in the bulletin only two Simpson helmets are on the approved list. This is FIA list is also for helmets approved or not approved in conjunction with the HANS device. I did not see G-force on the list either but not totally sure if they are manufactured under another name.

I know that there was an issue with SFI & Impact way back when. But that was all cleared up -- so there should be no surprise here..... Im not sure how , why or if this affects us. Would be worse than a small deal for us. We would need to come up with $1k or more to make the changes, that would have been sprung on us at the last minute with virtually no notice.

The rule book states this :Helmets- All participating drivers must wear a well fitted safety helmetdesigned specifically for auto racing (SA designation) that meet or exceeds the2000 or better Snell Foundation or SFI Foundation 24.1 youth spec helmetspecifications and are labeled as such. Helmets will be in good condition (noexterior cracks, evidence of impact or deteriorating interior lining)Helmets will besubject to inspection at each event by the Technical, Safety and/or medicalrepresentative. Hair must be under the helmet or inside the drivers suit/jacket.1. Visors/Face shields must be in the down position when on the racingsurface.2. Clear, or amber, face shields must be worn after dark, or whenever tracklights are turned on. To me, that means if the helmet meets these standards and is not specifically excluded like the draft and the vapor, then it is legal. That is how im taking it.